shop.pearlizumi.com
We know that the ELITE Gel-Vent FFs are some of the best bike gloves on the market because one loyal tester wore his previous pair to threads (quite literally), and then went out and got another pair without pausing to consider alternatives.  That kind of brand loyalty speaks volumes, and it’s justified. The synthetic leather palm delivers optimal comfort and grip, while the perforated gel-vent padding in the palms also relieves pressure on the ulnar and median nerves for hours-long comfort.  Narrow vertical strips at the fingers deliver a bit more grip, and the stretchy, fine-woven mesh backs give you a close-to-the-skin fit without clumping or bunching. The Velcro hook-and-loop closure has been improved from previous models, and they also now boast a small, firm tab at the cuff that makes pulling on the full-hand gloves a breeze. We love the low-profile wiping surface on the thumb.

It’s also worth noting, several of our testers opt for the full-finger glove over the fingerless; when you take a tumble, your hands always hit the earth (pavement-covered or otherwise), and we prefer as much comfortable protection as possible when that inevitably occurs.

www.crankbrothers.com, 10 ounces
Upgrading from traditional pedals or foot baskets to clipless is much like moving into a larger living space–once you’re there, you’ll never go back. The biggest hurdle in that evolution, however, remains the perceived challenge of getting your shoes in (and out) of those damn cleats. For us, the Crank Brothers’ Eggbeater 2 pedal is the cycling equivalent of having someone on the inside to help you out. The pedals boast four entry points, which means it’s nearly impossible to not find purchase when you go to clip in. And getting out is even easier. Twist your foot away from (or toward) the bike, and you’re free; the 15- to 20-degree angle you need (which expands the metal coil enough to release the cleat) isn’t part of standard pedal rotation, so staying in the pedals as just as intuitive as getting out. The Eggbeater 2 pedals each weigh a measly 10 ounces, and are constructed out of stamped and stainless steel. We’ve pedaled on one pair well past its five-year warranty without any issue, save one: the brass cleats (the part you screw into your bike shoes) did wear down after a few years of near-daily use (commuting and riding singletrack), and they slipped until they were replaced. But new cleats only run $22, and are easy to find online or in most bike shops. One bit of advice to the clipless new-comers: practice on a grass field till the experience becomes intuitive. Then hit the trail, path, or street and see how much more speed and control the pedals afford.